Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could have agreement soon

Negotiations regarding an extension between the Toronto Blue Jays and first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. may be drawing to a conclusion.

USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported that the two sides are "expected to reach a resolution" in the coming days. Nightengale further reported that the expected extension would be for 14 years and worth more than $500 million.

It's a bit of a surprise that the two sides are this close to an extension. Guerrero had stated that he would not negotiate if an extension was not agreed upon by the start of spring training. In March, Guerrero had said that there was a significant gap between the two sides.

However, the Blue Jays refused to give up, continuing to speak with Guerrero's representatives about a deal. Buster Olney from ESPN reported that an offer was made in March but the two sides could not come to an agreement at the time.

If Nightengale's report is correct, the Blue Jays will give Guerrero the type of deal he reportedly sought from the beginning. Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic reported that Guerrero was looking for a 14-year contract worth at least $500 million in present-day value.

Signing Guerrero to a long-term deal would lock in another key part of the lineup. Catcher Alejandro Kirk had signed a five-year extension days before Opening Day. Outfielder Anthony Santander agreed to a five-year deal of his own in free agency. Infielder Andres Gimenez, who was acquired from the Guardians in the offseason, is under team control through 2030. 

None of those pieces mean as much to the Blue Jays lineup as Guerrero. The four-time All-Star is off to a solid start this season, producing a .286/.350/.371 batting line in his 40 plate appearances entering Sunday.